A late addition to the prestigious McDonald’s All American Game has only happened twice before. Julius Randle (Plano, Texas/Prestonwood Christian) will be the third player in the game’s history to be a late addition. But for missing most of his senior season, should he have been added to the team?

For those who may not know Randle’s story, let me give you a little background. Randle, one of the top recruits in the 2013 basketball class, suffered a broken foot around Thanksgiving, leaving his senior season in jeopardy. It was just a couple weeks ago, after about three months of sitting out, when he made his return and he came back with something to prove. He averaged just under 30 points per game since his return and helped to lead Prestonwood Christian to a private school state title.

Now back to the matter at hand. Should Randle be playing in the McDonald’s All American Game? My answer to you is yes and I will tell you why.

Back when the rosters were released, committee chairman Morgan Wootten said that as long as Randle came back and played well, he would be up for consideration to be added. With the numbers he put up returning from injury, I’d say he performed exceptionally well.

Honestly, who wouldn’t want to see possibly the best player of the 2013 class in Randle go up against some of the best in the class as well? Randle did not become a star between his junior and senior years. Hee’s been a stud for a while and playing in this game will be a testament of all the hard work he has put in.

I understand that he is also selected to play in the Jordan Brand Classic, which is a great accolade as well, but with all the prestige of the McDonald’s game, it’s one the top players want to be in.

The committee absolutely got this one right. I’m glad they didn’t let an unfortunate injury cost one of the best players in the class an opportunity to play in one of the best showcases of high school basketball talent. It will be fun to watch Randle play out there and mix it up with the best of the best in the nation.

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